The Essence of Iris

20 degrees the day you were born

A beautiful bundle that even today 

Could rock a paper sack

You are generous

Because you know those who are not

You are kind and loving to everyone

Even in a run-down car with

Three babies you remained

Determined

For a better life for them, for you

Your selfless love & actions

Set you apart

Your legacy lives on forever

In the amazing faces of your children

And your beautiful granddaughters

In each of them you will find qualities of you…

Strong

Reliable

Caring

Hard-working

Understanding

Strong-will & determination

You carry your head high

Because you know who you are

And whose you are

You are powerful

You are amazing, a prayer warrior

You can be scary and intense at times

Especially when mad or in 

Beast mode at the gym

Even in those moments

When you think you’ll break

You still cry out to God

Your heart remains soft

Emotional- you cry at commercials

You cry at a song

You cry when we cry- those you love

You wipe away OUR tears 

Before you ever wipe away your own first 

You are incredible

Maybe it’s a stretch to say you’re an

Angel on earth

Or is it?

You never give up

There is no word called QUIT or CAN’T

You love without judgment

You listen and are insanely supportive

Even with the pointed finger

And tongue lashing…all in love

Your high-pitched baby puppy talk

Breaks glass

But no one would have it any other way

Let’s not forget

That you’re smoking hot

Those sensual moves rocking that salsa beat

Lifting your hands in your hair

Gliding across the dance floor 

Not one person breathes

Enchanted by your effortless sexy

You love hard, you work hard, you play hard

Your wisdom is wanted & necessary

For those of us who seek your kind of strength

Never forget who you are & what you are

To all of us & those who haven’t even met you yet

Happy 50 our darling woman

We love you so much

Always

JJ McCreary